India Foundation in collaboration with Gujarat University, organised the 8th International Dharma Dhamma Conference, on 23-25 August 2024 at Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. The theme for this year’s conference was “Cosmology in Dharma and Dhamma”. The conference witnessed the participation of scholars from 17 countries and explored the cosmological perspectives within Dharmic traditions and examined their relevance in the contemporary world. This prestigious gathering saw participation from over 400 scholars and intellectuals representing 17 countries. More than 50 distinguished keynote and plenary speakers delivered and engaged in different sessions, while 120 scholars presented research papers on various sub-themes.
Inaugural Session
The inaugural session of the 8th International Dharma Dhamma Conference was held on 23 August 2024 at the Convention Centre Hall, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. The Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, graced the event as the Chief Guest. The session also featured addresses from prominent dignitaries, including Shri Acharya Devvrat, Hon’ble Governor of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, and Swami Shri Govinda Dev Giri Ji Maharaj, Treasurer, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Prof. Neerja A Gupta, Vice Chancellor of Gujarat University, warmly welcomed the attendees, emphasising the vital role cosmology plays in shaping the philosophical and cultural paradigms of the Indian subcontinent.
The session began with welcome remarks by Swami Shri Govinda Dev Giri Ji Maharaj, Treasurer, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and Head of the Organising committee of the 8th International Dharma Dhamma Conference. He stated, “Bharat has given the whole world the light of knowledge in every walk of human life…We welcome all the delegates who have come from different countries of the world to this land of compassion, universal brotherhood, and knowledge.”
Furthermore, Prof. Neerja A. Gupta, Vice Chancellor, Gujarat University, delivered the Introductory remarks. In her address, she welcomed all the dignitaries, speakers, and delegates who have joined to realise ‘एकम् सत् विप्रा बहुधा वदन्ति’ (the truth is one, the wise call it by different names).
On this occasion, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel in his address highlighted Gujarat’s spiritual and historical legacy, saying, “This land is at the confluence of Dharma and Dhamma.” He further mentioned the ancient presence of Buddhism in Vadnagar, Gujarat, the hometown of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. He further expressed confidence that the conference would strengthen unity among nations and accelerate development.
Furthermore, while addressing the august gathering, Shri Acharya Devvrat, Hon’ble Governor of Gujarat, remarked, “Dharma and Dhamma are the guiding principles that, when followed, bring happiness to both the practitioner and those who encounter it. It encompasses the essence of simplicity, kindness, compassion, and courage—qualities that form the foundation of a meaningful and virtuous life.”
In his inaugural address, the Hon. Vice-President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar underlined the importance of understanding everyone’s Dharmic duty, which integrates scientific inquiry and spiritual wisdom. He further highlighted that this holistic approach is crucial in contemporary times. He remarked “From Vedic traditions of India to the Buddhist philosophies, the concepts of Dharma and Dhamma have provided us a shared heritage of wisdom, compassion, and righteousness. The timeless relevance of these principles is evident in our cultural, social, and spiritual landscapes.”He also appealed to the audience to demand from their leaders that they follow their ‘Constitutional Dharma’.
Ministerial Session
The Ministers’ Session, chaired by Prof. Neerja A Gupta, Vice Chancellor of Gujarat University, saw the participation of ministers from Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Cambodia. The session focused on the practical applications of Dharmic cosmology in governance and cultural preservation.
Mr. Tshering, Hon’ble Home Minister of Bhutan, discussed the importance of cosmological awareness in shaping compassionate and sustainable public policies. Mr. Vidura Wickramanayaka, Hon’ble Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs, Sri Lanka, highlighted the strength of the Dharmic and Dhammic ties between India and Sri Lanka. Similarly, Mr. Badri Prasad Pandey, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Government of Nepal, stressed the importance of cooperation for improving cross-border infrastructure and mobility for religious tourism between India and Nepal. Mr. Ngoun Sdechpheakdey, Hon’ble Secretary of State, Ministry of Cults and Religions, Government of Cambodia highlighted the significance of Dharma Dhamma traditions in Cambodia and the possible cooperation in the region based on these traditions.
Keynote Session
In fond memory of the late Professor S R Bhatt, the first S R Bhatt Memorial Lecture was held at the 8th International Dharma Dhamma Conference in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The lecture began with a tribute by Prof. Geo Lyong Lee, Former President of the Korean Society for Indian Studies, South Korea, who described how Prof. Bhatt had shaped his intellectual journey.
While moderating the S.R. Bhatt Memorial Lecture, Mr. Come Carpentier, a distinguished fellow at India Foundation highlighted “When we decided to choose cosmology as a theme, which is sometimes not well understood in terms of its practical application, we kept three things in mind that happened relatively recently in the field of science- 1. Increasing awareness that the universe is inseparable from consciousness 2. The universe extends far beyond and may not be what we expected to find and 3. Human beings are not the highest form of life in the universe and there are much more advanced life forms”, setting the tone for the 3-day conference on cosmology in Dharma Dhamma Traditions.
The keynote session featured insights from Swami Shri Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj, Treasurer, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Swami Brahmaviharidas of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, and Ven. Banagala Upatissa Nayake Thero, President of the Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka.
Swami Shri Govinda Dev Giri Ji Maharaj emphasised, “Though Dharma and Dhamma are two different terms, their essence is the same. If humanity is to be saved, these traditions must be protected, propagated, and taken to every nook and corner of the world.”
Swami Brahmaviharidas remarked, “While we respect every field of knowledge on this earth, and research and studies in any field contribute to the well-being of the world, research and study on cosmology, however, contribute to the wisdom of this world.” In addition, while emphasising the interconnectedness of the universe, he stated, “The study of cosmology teaches us ‘interconnectedness’ but more than interconnectedness, ‘interdependence’. We are inherently interdependent- the iron that flows through blood absorbs oxygen and keeps us alive was created in the stars. Hence, if the stars have helped us breathe, if the sun has helped us shine and warm, and if the moon and ocean manage our moods, then evidently, everything is interconnected and interdependent.”
The last keynote address featured Ven. Banagala Upatissa Nayake Thero shared his insights on the ‘Panchsheel theory,’ stating, “If you apply the Panchsheel theory in your life, you will live peacefully and happily.” He further added, “Hatred is never ceased by hatred; hatred is always ceased by love.”
With an overall attendance of 700 participants, day one of the 8th International Dharma Dhamma Conference concluded with a vibrant cultural program showcasing the tradition and heritage of the state of Gujarat. The program featured Garba, a regional dance form, and a short play depicting the life journey of Mahatma Buddha, reflecting the deep cultural ties with cosmological thought.
Plenary Sessions and Paper Presentations
The conference featured seven plenary sessions on 24th and 25th August 2024, where 38 distinguished speakers addressed the theme of “Cosmology in Dharma and Dhamma.” These discussions spanned a wide array of topics, including cosmological insights from the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Itihasas and Indian philosophical traditions such as Sankhya, Nyaya-Vaisheshika, Yoga, Vedanta, Shaiva and Shakta Darshanas, Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. The sessions also explored intersections between Dharmic and Dhamma cosmology with modern scientific theories.
In addition to the plenary sessions, three rounds of paper presentations with six parallel sessions in each round were held on 24th and 25th August 2024. During these sessions, 120 scholars presented their research on various sub-themes.
Conclusion
The 8th International Dharma Dhamma Conference successfully underscored the depth and relevance of cosmology in Dharma and Dhamma traditions for the contemporary world. The conference highlighted the importance of integrating ancient wisdom with modern scientific inquiry to address our times’ spiritual, social, and environmental challenges. Participants left with a renewed commitment to exploring and applying these insights in their respective fields, contributing to a more harmonious and enlightened global society.
